Ashleigh Plumptre nears return from injury, boosts Super Falcons WAFCON hopes
Nigeria defender Ashleigh Plumptre has provided an encouraging update on her recovery from injury, revealing that she expects to be "back on that field soon" as she edges closer to a return to competitive football.
The 28-year-old shared the positive message on her official Instagram page while reflecting on a memorable 2025/26 campaign, despite seeing her season cut short by injury.
Plumptre has been out of action since the end of February after suffering a persistent foot injury. The Al Ittihad defender underwent successful surgery on her left foot before beginning rehabilitation in the United Kingdom.
Although the setback ruled her out for the closing stages of the Saudi Women's Premier League season, her latest update indicates that she is making good progress toward full fitness.
Accompanying a series of photos highlighting key moments from the season, Plumptre celebrated her achievements on and off the pitch, including her time with Al Ittihad, her first international goal for Nigeria, and the launch of the Ashleigh Plumptre Foundation.
"Season 25/26, Making strides with my people at Al Ittihad, First International goal alongside my girls with Super Falcons, my foundation dream kicks off with 250 girls present in Lagos for football camps and sports trafficking education with Mission 89. Back on that field soon," she wrote.
Before her injury, Plumptre made 10 league appearances for Al Ittihad, contributing four assists and playing a key role in the club's campaign.
She also reached a personal milestone on the international stage, scoring her maiden goal for the Super Falcons in a 1-1 draw against Benin Republic during a 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on October 28, 2025.
Away from football, the England-born defender continues to make an impact through the Ashleigh Plumptre Foundation, an initiative dedicated to empowering young athletes with football development, life skills and education on sports trafficking.
Plumptre's anticipated return will come as welcome news for the Super Falcons as they intensify preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The tournament will run from July 26 to August 16, with Nigeria drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi as the nine-time champions chase a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
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